Zolani Mahola is a singer, songwriter and actress, born in Port Elizabeth and raised in New Brighton, who studied theatre and performance at the University of Cape Town. She co-founded the pan-African band Freshlyground in Cape Town and was its lead vocalist for 17 years, performing on the world stage at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. In 2019 she began her solo project as The One Who Sings, releasing her debut album Thetha Mama in 2021, and won a Fleur du Cap Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2020 for her one-woman play of the same name. She is an ambassador for the Sea Change Project and the Give Her A Crown campaign.

I was so thrilled that Zolani wanted to join the crafternoon and paint a shell for I am Water! Her music has been my companion through so many creative hours over the years and my kids cannot hear Waka Waka enough on our journeys to school! Zolani is a national treasure, a singer songwriter capable of bringing us all together with her wisdom and brilliance. She is also a huge lover of the ocean and a diver! Zolani is imminently releasing a new album with a new band and we cannot wait to listen. I cant help but wonder, is 'Hold my hand' one of her new soon to be global hit lyrics? This shell is extremely special, painted with love and sparking so much joy in our studio! Enkosi Zolani!

Dimensions: 26 x 20cm
Every shell is wired by George Magaso, ready to hang directly on the wall from a nail.

@zolanimahola